Abstract: Some embodiments relate to an automated method of transferring biological material from a sample disposed on a planar substrate into a collection tube. The method can include: using a dissection too that has an internal passageway extending between first and second ends of the tool and an air-permeable filter element that spans the internal passageway. The method can include steps of physically detaching the biological material from the planar substrate using the scraping blade of the dissection tool, generating an underpressure at the tool second end by connecting the internal passageway to a vacuum generator, attaching the collection tube to an outer surface of the dissection tool in an airtight manner; and generating an overpressure at the tool second end, and transferring the material into the collection tube.

Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a dissection tool for mechanical removal of biological material from a tissue sample on a planar substrate, such a glass slide including a platform for supporting the glass slide and a positioning system configured to move the dissection tool and platform relative to each other and control their relative positions. The dissection tool has a longitudinal axis and is arranged at an oblique angle relative to the platform and a thin-walled gouging head that has a base portion. The gouging head includes opposing side portions which extend from the base portion in a direction away from the glass slide and which at least partly enclose a cavity within the gouging head for receiving biological material that is dissected when relative movement between the platform and the dissection tool causes a front face of the gouging head to gouge a track though the tissue sample.